🌊 Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 – 7.7kW Full Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump with WiFi Control & R32 Refrigerant
Transform your swimming experience with year-round comfort. The Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 delivers powerful, whisper-quiet heating and cooling for pools up to 55m³, combining cutting-edge full inverter technology with the convenience of WiFi smartphone control.
Perfect for homeowners seeking efficient, reliable, and intelligent pool heating, this compact vertical heat pump fits even the tightest spaces while delivering exceptional performance. With an impressive COP of up to 15.31, you’ll save over 35% on energy costs compared to traditional ON/OFF heat pumps.
✅ Ultra-Compact Design – Vertical architecture with just a 510 x 510mm footprint
✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation – Only 19-27 dBA at 10 meters
✅ Smart WiFi Control – Manage your pool from anywhere using the Poolex App
✅ Works in Freezing Conditions – Operates down to -10°C ambient temperature
✅ Eco-Friendly R32 Refrigerant – Lower environmental impact
✅ Premium Components – Toshiba compressor, titanium heat exchanger
🎯 Key Features That Set This Heat Pump Apart
Full Inverter Technology – The Smart Heating Solution
Unlike conventional heat pumps that constantly switch on and off, the Vertigo Fi 55 uses stepless full inverter technology with a multi-frequency compressor and variable-speed fan. This means:
- Gradual startup – No power consumption spikes
- Continuous operation at reduced speed – Maintains temperature efficiently
- 35%+ energy savings vs. ON/OFF heat pumps
- Dramatically reduced noise – Runs virtually silent
- Extended compressor lifespan – Fewer start/stop cycles
Space-Saving Vertical Design
The Vertigo Fi’s vertical architecture revolutionizes pool equipment placement:
- Minimal floor footprint – Only 510 x 510mm base
- Upward air discharge – Requires minimal clearance area
- Fits confined spaces – Perfect for technical shelters or small plant rooms
- Discreet installation – Can be positioned out of sight
Intelligent LED Status System
Instantly understand your heat pump’s status at a glance:
- 🟢 Green LED – Target temperature reached
- 🔵 Blue LED – Actively heating your pool
- 🔴 Red LED – Unit not in operation (standby/fault)
Multiple Operating Modes for Every Situation
🚀 Boost Mode – Maximum heating or cooling power when you need it fast
🤫 Silent Mode – Ultra-quiet operation for peaceful evenings
🧠 Smart Mode – Intelligent temperature maintenance with optimal efficiency
⚙️ Auto Mode – Fully automatic operation based on your preferences
🔥 Heat Mode – Direct heating control
❄️ Cool Mode – Refreshing pool cooling on hot days
📱 WiFi Control – Your Pool at Your Fingertips
The built-in WiFi module connects seamlessly to the Poolex App (iOS & Android), giving you complete control:
- View real-time water temperature anywhere in the world
- Adjust target temperature remotely
- Switch between heating/cooling modes instantly
- Set programmable timers for automated operation
- Monitor operating status and receive alerts
- Turn on/off remotely – Pre-heat before arriving home
No additional hardware required – WiFi built-in as standard
📄 Downloads & Documentation
Access comprehensive technical documentation and installation guides for your Poolex Vertigo Fi 55:
📄 Official Installation & User Manual (English) (opens in new tab)
Complete 44-page guide covering installation requirements, electrical connections, hydraulic setup, operation instructions, troubleshooting, and warranty information. Includes detailed technical specifications and wiring diagrams.
💡 Installation Tip: Always have a qualified electrician perform the electrical installation and ensure compliance with local building regulations. The manual includes specific clearance requirements and placement guidelines essential for optimal performance.
🏊 Pool Sizing Guide – Is This Heat Pump Right For You?
The Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 (7.7kW) is specifically designed for pools between 30-55m³ water volume.
Recommended Pool Sizes
| Pool Type | Dimensions (approx.) | Volume | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Above-Ground | 4m diameter x 1m deep | 12m³ | ✅ Excellent |
| Medium Above-Ground | 5m diameter x 1.2m deep | 23m³ | ✅ Excellent |
| Large Above-Ground | 7m x 4m x 1.2m | 33m³ | ✅ Excellent |
| Small In-Ground | 6m x 3m x 1.4m | 25m³ | ✅ Excellent |
| Medium In-Ground | 8m x 4m x 1.5m | 48m³ | ✅ Excellent |
| Large In-Ground | 10m x 5m x 1.5m | 75m³ | ⚠️ Consider Fi 75 (10.35kW) |
💡 Pro Tip: For pools at the upper end of the size range, consider the next model up (Vertigo Fi 75) for faster heat-up times and better performance in colder weather.
⏱ Estimated Heat-Up Times
Understanding how quickly your pool will heat helps you plan usage and manage expectations. Below are estimated heat-up times based on the Vertigo Fi 55’s 7.7kW heating capacity under optimal conditions.
Heat-Up Time Calculator
Formula Used:
Time (hours) = (Pool Volume m³ × Temperature Rise °C × 1.16) ÷ 7.7kW
Standard Heat-Up Scenarios
| Pool Volume | From 15°C to 25°C (10°C rise) | From 18°C to 28°C (10°C rise) | From 20°C to 26°C (6°C rise) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20m³ | 30 hours (1.3 days) | 30 hours (1.3 days) | 18 hours (0.8 days) |
| 30m³ | 45 hours (1.9 days) | 45 hours (1.9 days) | 27 hours (1.1 days) |
| 40m³ | 60 hours (2.5 days) | 60 hours (2.5 days) | 36 hours (1.5 days) |
| 50m³ | 75 hours (3.1 days) | 75 hours (3.1 days) | 45 hours (1.9 days) |
Larger Temperature Rises
| Pool Volume | From 10°C to 25°C (15°C rise) | From 12°C to 28°C (16°C rise) |
|---|---|---|
| 20m³ | 45 hours (1.9 days) | 48 hours (2.0 days) |
| 30m³ | 68 hours (2.8 days) | 72 hours (3.0 days) |
| 40m³ | 90 hours (3.8 days) | 96 hours (4.0 days) |
| 50m³ | 113 hours (4.7 days) | 121 hours (5.0 days) |
⚠️ Important Disclaimers:
These are theoretical estimates under ideal conditions (26°C air temperature, 80% humidity). Actual heat-up times will vary based on:
- Ambient air temperature – Lower temperatures reduce heating capacity
- Pool insulation – Uninsulated above-ground pools lose heat faster
- Pool cover usage – Uncovered pools lose significant heat overnight
- Wind exposure – Windy conditions increase heat loss
- Water circulation rate – Must match heat pump requirements
- Initial water temperature – Colder starting temps take proportionally longer
💡 Speed-Up Tips:
- Always use a pool cover when not in use (can reduce heat-up time by 40-50%)
- Insulate above-ground pool walls and base
- Start heating well before you plan to use the pool
- Use Boost Mode during initial heat-up phase
💰 Running Cost Comparison
See how the Vertigo Fi 55 compares to alternative pool heating methods:
| Heating Method | Energy Type | Estimated Cost per kWh | Cost to Heat 40m³ Pool (10°C rise) | Relative Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 | Electricity (Heat Pump) | £0.30/kWh | £21-28 | Baseline |
| Direct Electric Heater | Electricity (Resistive) | £0.30/kWh | £180-200 | 7-8x more |
| Gas Boiler | Natural Gas | £0.10/kWh (gas equiv.) | £70-90 | 3-4x more |
| Oil Boiler | Heating Oil | £0.12/kWh (oil equiv.) | £85-110 | 4-5x more |
| Solar Heating | Solar (Free) | £0.00 | £0 (after installation) | Free fuel* |
Cost calculations based on COP of 6.8 (A26/W26) for heat pump. Actual costs vary with electricity prices and weather conditions. Solar heating requires significant upfront investment and sunny weather.
Energy Savings: The Vertigo Fi 55’s high COP means for every 1kW of electricity consumed, you get 6.8-15.3kW of heating power delivered to your pool – making it 6-8 times more efficient than direct electric heating.
🔧 Technical Specifications
Performance Data
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Heating Capacity (A26/W26) | 7.7 kW (maximum) |
| Minimum Heating Output | 1.50 kW |
| Power Consumption (A26/W26) | 0.10 – 1.13 kW |
| COP (A26/W26) | 6.84 – 15.31 |
| Heating Capacity (A15/W26) | 5.82 kW (maximum) |
| Power Consumption (A15/W26) | 0.16 – 1.18 kW |
| COP (A15/W26) | 4.93 – 7.52 |
| Maximum Power Input | 1.6 kW |
COP (Coefficient of Performance) = Heating output ÷ Electrical input. Higher COP = More efficient.
Electrical Requirements
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 230V / 50Hz Single Phase |
| Maximum Current | 7.1A |
| Recommended MCB | 10A Type C (C-Curve) |
| Cable Requirement | 3 x 2.5mm² (RO2V cable) |
| IP Rating | IPX4 (weather resistant) |
⚠️ Important: Must be installed by a qualified electrician. RCD protection recommended.
Operating Parameters
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Heating Temperature Range | 15°C – 40°C |
| Cooling Temperature Range | 8°C – 28°C |
| Ambient Operating Range | -10°C to +43°C |
| Refrigerant Type | R32 (eco-friendly) |
| Refrigerant Charge | Factory sealed (no user maintenance) |
| Nominal Water Flow Rate | 2.4 m³/h |
| Water Connections | 50mm / 1½ inch |
Acoustic Performance
| Measurement Point | Noise Level |
|---|---|
| At 1 Meter | 38-45 dBA |
| At 10 Meters | 19-27 dBA |
For reference: 20 dBA = Whisper quiet, 30 dBA = Quiet library, 40 dBA = Quiet office
Physical Dimensions
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 510 × 510 × 690 mm |
| Net Weight | 30 kg |
| Gross Weight (Packaged) | 33 kg |
| Packaging Dimensions | 570 × 570 × 830 mm |
| Fan Direction | Vertical (upward discharge) |
| Casing Material | ABS (weather & corrosion resistant) |
Premium Components
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Compressor | Toshiba rotary compressor with inverter technology |
| Fan Motor | DC inverter variable-speed motor |
| Heat Exchanger | Titanium coil (chlorine & salt resistant) |
| Controller | LCD touchscreen with integrated LED indicators |
| Expansion Valve | Electronic expansion valve (precise control) |
📦 What’s Included in the Box
Your Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 package includes everything you need for a professional installation:
✅ Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 Heat Pump – Factory tested and ready to install
✅ Water Union Fittings (×2) – 50mm / 1½ inch connections
✅ Condensate Drain Hose – For water drainage during operation
✅ Rubber Isolating Feet (×4) – Anti-vibration pads for silent operation
✅ Winter Cover – Protective cover for off-season storage
✅ Installation & User Manual – Comprehensive setup guide
Not Included (Required Separately):
- Electrical cable and protective equipment (must comply with local regulations)
- Water hoses or pipework (50mm/1½” or 32/38mm with appropriate fittings)
- Wall brackets or mounting hardware (if required for your installation)
- Bypass kit (recommended for above-ground pools)
🛡️ Industry-Leading Warranty Coverage
Poolex demonstrates confidence in their engineering with comprehensive warranty protection:
| Component | Warranty Period | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Pump Unit | 5 Years | Full parts and labor (years 1-5) |
| Compressor | 7 Years | Parts only (years 6-7) |
| Titanium Heat Exchanger | 15 Years | Parts only against corrosion (years 6-15) |
Warranty Terms:
- Covers manufacturing defects and component failures under normal use
- Requires professional installation by qualified technician
- Regular maintenance as per manual required to maintain validity
- Does not cover damage from incorrect installation, freezing, or chemical damage
💡 Warranty Tip: Register your heat pump with Poolex within 30 days of purchase to activate extended warranty coverage.
⚙️ Installation Requirements & Guidelines
Clearance & Placement Requirements
Minimum Clearances for Optimal Performance:
| Side | Minimum Clearance |
|---|---|
| Front (Service Access) | 800mm |
| Rear | 300mm |
| Left Side | 200mm |
| Right Side | 200mm |
| Top (Vertical Discharge) | 2000mm clear airflow path |
Ideal Installation Locations:
- Level, solid surface with good drainage
- Sheltered from direct wind exposure
- Away from bedroom windows (noise consideration)
- Protected from falling debris or leaves
- Not enclosed (requires adequate ventilation)
- Accessible for annual maintenance
❌ Avoid These Locations:
- Fully enclosed spaces without ventilation
- Directly under bedroom windows
- Areas prone to flooding or standing water
- Locations with restricted top clearance (blocks vertical airflow)
- Indoor spaces (outdoor installation only)
Hydraulic Connection Guidelines
Water Flow Requirements:
- Required Flow Rate: 2.4 m³/h
- Pipe Diameter: Minimum 50mm (1½ inch) or equivalent
- Connection Type: 50mm female thread or glue socket
- Installation Position: After the filter, before chemical dosing
Recommended Hydraulic Setup:
- Pool → Filter → Heat Pump → Chemical Dosing → Return to Pool
- Install isolation valves before and after heat pump (for servicing)
- Consider bypass kit for above-ground pools (flow optimization)
- Install condensate drain hose with gravity fall to drainage point
Electrical Installation Requirements
⚡ Critical Safety Requirements:
- Professional installation by qualified electrician mandatory
- RCD (Residual Current Device) protection required
- 10A Type C MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) minimum
- 3 × 2.5mm² cable (RO2V specification)
- Dedicated circuit recommended (not shared with other equipment)
- Emergency stop button mandatory for public pools
Electrical Installation Steps:
- Isolate mains power supply
- Run cable through heat pump entry grommet
- Connect to terminal block (L, N, Earth)
- Secure cable strain relief
- Test all connections before energizing
- Commission unit following manual procedures
💡 Maximizing Efficiency – Pro Installation & Usage Tips
Installation Tips for Best Performance
🎯 Positioning Strategy:
- Place heat pump in the sunniest location possible (warmer air = better COP)
- Position downwind of prevailing winds to minimize heat loss
- Mount on anti-vibration pads (included) for silent operation
- Ensure perfect level – improves condensate drainage and operation
🔧 Hydraulic Optimization:
- Use largest practical pipe diameter (reduces pressure drop)
- Minimize number of bends and elbows in pipework
- Install bypass kit for above-ground pools (optimizes flow rate)
- Check filter cleanliness regularly (dirty filter = reduced flow = poor performance)
⚡ Electrical Best Practices:
- Use dedicated circuit (prevents voltage drops from other equipment)
- Quality cable connections (loose connections = overheating)
- Position electrical connection box at bottom for easier service access
Usage Tips for Maximum Efficiency
🌟 Daily Operation:
- Use a pool cover religiously – Saves 40-50% of heating costs
- Run heat pump during warmest part of day (higher COP)
- Set target temperature 1-2°C lower than desired (residual heating reaches target)
- Use Smart Mode for everyday operation (optimal efficiency)
- Use Boost Mode only for initial heat-up (higher power consumption)
📅 Seasonal Optimization:
Spring/Autumn (Cool Weather):
- Allow extra time for heat-up (lower ambient = reduced capacity)
- Use pool cover overnight (critical for heat retention)
- Clean filters frequently (ensures optimal flow)
Summer (Warm Weather):
- Heat pump runs most efficiently (high COP at 26°C+)
- May rarely need to run (solar gain helps)
- Consider Cool Mode if pool gets too warm (>30°C)
Winter (Off-Season):
- Drain water from heat pump (prevent freeze damage)
- Fit winter cover (included)
- Store in dry location if possible
- Never run below -10°C ambient (outside operating range)
🌊 Above-Ground Pool Specific Tips:
- Insulate pool walls and base – Dramatic reduction in heat loss
- Use ground sheet with insulation underneath
- Consider pool blanket for sides (available aftermarket)
- Bypass kit highly recommended (optimizes flow for smaller pumps)
💰 Cost-Saving Strategies:
- Heat pool to lower temperature (26°C vs. 28°C = significant savings)
- Use programmable timer (heat only when needed)
- Service annually (clean coils, check refrigerant = maintains efficiency)
- Combine with solar cover (free heating assist during day)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
General Operation Questions
Q1: How long does it take to heat my pool?
This depends on your pool volume, starting temperature, and weather conditions. For a typical 40m³ pool heated from 18°C to 26°C (8°C rise), expect approximately 2-2.5 days under good conditions (20°C+ air temperature). Always use a pool cover to dramatically reduce heat-up time. See our detailed heat-up time tables above for specific scenarios.
Q2: Can the heat pump cool my pool in summer?
Yes! The Vertigo Fi 55 features reversible operation with dedicated Cool Mode. This is particularly useful if your pool exceeds 30°C during hot summer weather, providing refreshing cooling down to 8°C.
Q3: How much does it cost to run?
Running costs vary with electricity prices and weather, but typically £2-5 per day during heat-up phase, and £1-3 per day for temperature maintenance (40m³ pool). The high COP means you get 6-15 times more heating energy than electrical energy consumed – making this 6-8x cheaper than electric resistance heating.
Q4: Will it work in winter?
The Vertigo Fi 55 operates down to -10°C ambient temperature, making it suitable for year-round pool use in many UK climates. However, heating capacity reduces in cold weather. For optimal winter performance, ensure you use a high-quality pool cover and consider your pool is well-insulated.
Installation Questions
Q5: Can I install this myself?
Electrical installation must be performed by a qualified electrician to comply with UK regulations and maintain warranty validity. Hydraulic connections can be completed by competent DIYers following the manual, but professional installation is recommended for optimal performance and warranty protection.
Q6: Do I need a bypass kit?
Bypass kits are highly recommended for above-ground pools and beneficial for all installations. They allow you to control water flow rate precisely, enable easy winterization, and permit pool operation when heat pump is off. While not absolutely essential, the benefits far outweigh the modest cost.
Q7: What size pool is this suitable for?
The Vertigo Fi 55 is ideal for pools between 30-55m³ water volume. It will work with smaller pools (20-30m³) but may be oversized. For pools larger than 55m³, consider the next model up (Vertigo Fi 75 – 10.35kW) for better performance and faster heat-up times.
Q8: Can this heat an indoor pool?
While technically possible, the Vertigo Fi 55 is specifically designed for outdoor installation only. Indoor installation requires specialized ventilation and air handling not present in this model. For indoor pools, consult a pool heating specialist for appropriate equipment.
WiFi & Control Questions
Q9: Is WiFi included or an optional extra?
WiFi connectivity is built-in as standard – no additional hardware required. Simply download the free Poolex App (iOS/Android), connect to your home WiFi network, and you’ll have full remote control of your heat pump from anywhere in the world.
Q10: What if I don’t have WiFi in my garden?
The heat pump operates perfectly well without WiFi using the integrated LCD touchscreen controller. WiFi is a convenience feature for remote monitoring and control. If your WiFi signal doesn’t reach your heat pump location, consider a WiFi extender or powerline adapter to improve signal strength.
Q11: Can multiple family members control the heat pump?
Yes! The Poolex App supports multiple user accounts. Each family member can download the app and connect to the same heat pump, allowing everyone to monitor temperature and adjust settings as needed.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting Questions
Q12: How much maintenance does it require?
Minimal maintenance required:
- Weekly: Visual inspection for debris around unit
- Monthly: Clean or check filter (if applicable)
- Annually: Professional service recommended (coil cleaning, refrigerant check, electrical connections)
- Off-season: Drain water, fit winter cover, protect from elements
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends lifespan significantly.
Q13: Why is my heat pump not heating?
Common causes include:
- Incorrect thermostat setting (target temp lower than current temp)
- Water flow issue (dirty filter, closed valve, air lock)
- Ambient temperature too low (<-10°C)
- Electrical fault or tripped breaker
- Unit in error state (check LED indicator – red = fault)
Refer to the user manual troubleshooting section or contact technical support for persistent issues.
Q14: The LED indicator is red – what does this mean?
A red LED indicates the heat pump is not in operation. This could be:
- Normal standby (target temperature already reached)
- Scheduled off-time (timer setting)
- Fault condition (check display for error code)
- Power supply issue
Check the LCD display for error codes and refer to the manual. Most issues are simple (flow switch, filter, power) and easily resolved.
Technical Questions
Q15: What refrigerant does it use and is it environmentally friendly?
The Vertigo Fi 55 uses R32 refrigerant, which has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) 67% lower than traditional R410A refrigerant. R32 is the latest eco-friendly refrigerant standard, offering excellent thermodynamic properties while significantly reducing environmental impact.
Q16: Is the heat pump loud?
The Vertigo Fi 55 is exceptionally quiet thanks to inverter technology. At 10 meters distance, it operates at just 19-27 dBA – quieter than a whisper and barely audible over ambient outdoor noise. Silent Mode further reduces noise when maximum quietness is desired (e.g., evening use near bedrooms).
Q17: Will salt chlorination damage the heat pump?
No. The Vertigo Fi 55 features a titanium heat exchanger specifically designed to resist corrosion from salt, chlorine, and other pool chemicals. This makes it fully compatible with all pool sanitation systems including salt chlorinators, without risk of corrosion or degradation.
Q18: Can I run it during a thunderstorm?
While the unit is weather-resistant (IPX4 rated), it’s advisable to switch off during severe electrical storms to protect sensitive electronic components. The unit will automatically restart when conditions improve. For prolonged periods of severe weather, use the included winter cover for additional protection.
🌟 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs?
When you purchase your Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 from Parts4Tubs, you receive:
✅ Genuine UK Stock – Authentic Poolex product with full manufacturer warranty
✅ Fast Delivery – Quick dispatch from UK warehouse
✅ Expert Support – Knowledgeable team ready to answer technical questions
✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value without compromising quality
✅ Peace of Mind – Authorized retailer status ensures warranty validity
📋 Final Recommendations
This Heat Pump is Perfect For:
✅ Pool owners seeking ultra-efficient heating with low running costs
✅ Those with limited space requiring compact equipment
✅ Anyone wanting smart control via smartphone app
✅ Pools 30-55m³ requiring reliable heating and cooling
✅ Both above-ground and in-ground pool installations
✅ Users prioritizing quiet operation for residential settings
✅ Environmentally conscious buyers seeking eco-friendly heating
Consider Alternatives If:
⚠️ Your pool exceeds 60m³ (consider Vertigo Fi 75 – 10.35kW)
⚠️ You require indoor installation (specialist indoor units needed)
⚠️ Your location regularly sees below -10°C temperatures
⚠️ You need instant heating (heat pumps require 1-4 days for major temp rises)
🎯 Ready to Transform Your Pool Experience?
The Poolex Vertigo Fi 55 represents the perfect balance of efficiency, performance, and intelligent control. With proven full inverter technology, premium components, and comprehensive warranty coverage, you’re investing in years of comfortable swimming at a fraction of traditional heating costs.
Order today and enjoy:
- 🌊 Perfect pool temperature year-round
- 💰 Up to 35% lower energy costs
- 📱 Total control from your smartphone
- 🔇 Whisper-quiet operation
- 🛡️ 5-year comprehensive warranty
- 🌍 Eco-friendly R32 refrigerant
Take the first step toward effortless, efficient pool heating – add to cart now!
Specifications and performance data based on manufacturer’s published information. Actual performance may vary based on installation quality, ambient conditions, and usage patterns. Always consult the official installation manual and use qualified professionals for installation. Heat-up time estimates are theoretical calculations under ideal conditions – actual times will vary.






